As we begin September we continue to be fortunate that we have no positive COVID cases at Oak Meadows. With the season of fall upon us we must continue to be very vigilant about following policies and procedures to keep us protected from COVID.   Governor Walz spoke yesterday and encouraged everyone that as we head into fall and winter we must “double down” on our COVID efforts to keep everyone healthy.

We must continue to limit the number of visitors inside the building. I know that as our weather changes there will be many people wanting to visit inside. We will continue with Essential Caregiver visits as long as we are able to stay COVID free. I ask that Essential Caregivers please limit your inside visits to once or twice per week. Not daily.

I know everyone is anxious to open our dining room but at this time there is too much risk in trying to keep everyone safe while dining so for now we will continue to deliver meals to your apartments. We continue to look at other options for activities where tenants can gather and still maintain safety levels. Watch your newsletter for updates.

Please remember to make informed decisions so that one bad decision does not cause the virus to spread:

• EVERYONE must wear a mask at all times when out of your apartment. We have noticed many people who go out for appointments that have returned in cars not wearing your mask and the drivers were not wearing their masks either. Please remember that close environments are the most dangerous spots for contacting the virus. WEAR YOUR MASK when riding in a car with someone and make sure they are wearing theirs too.
• You must maintain a 6 foot social distance. Please wash your hands frequently.
• Any person visiting at Oak Meadows, inside or outside, must have their temperature taken at the reception desk and have a mask on. There are no exceptions to this.
• Avoid large gatherings, i.e., church services, restaurants, stores, large family gatherings.

On a personal note I want to thank you for all of your kind wishes in the loss of my Mom. I was blessed to have her with me for so many years but I will miss her terribly. She was a big part of my life. I feel so fortunate to be part of a loving and caring community. Thank you all so much.

Sincerely,

Deb Veit, Executive Director

dveit@oak-meadows.org